Writer / Neal G. Moore
There’s no better indication that summer is upon us than the sprouting of farmers markets in Central Indiana. One of the finest is the Broad Ripple Farmers Market, located immediately south of the high school between Compton Street and Haverford Avenue. A glorious offering of fresh fruits and vegetables awaits the estimated 2,000 visitors who pour in on summer Saturdays, including many patrons from well outside the Broad Ripple area. “All markets have different personalities,” explained Barbara Wilder, Market Master. “This one is known as a ‘foodie’ market and so it attracts a different kind of customer.”
A typical Saturday includes more than 60 vendors selling seasonal produce, honey, meats, dairy products, cheese, breads and pastries. There also are flats of fresh flowers and plants, live music and ready-to-eat treats. And, if you enjoy dog watching, this is a place where many shoppers have a produce bag in one hand and a dog leash in the other. My suspicion is the dogs enjoy the people watching.
Why is it that we so eagerly flock to these outdoor smorgasbords? Wilder points to two factors. “There’s an awareness of the health implications [of fresh food] and knowing where your food comes from. People like talking to the farmers themselves, and feel good about what they’re buying. Also, it’s an opportunity to connect with the community. People bump into neighbors and friends and have a good time.”
The Farmers Market is sponsored by the Broad Ripple Village Association. BRFM is open 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Saturdays, May through November, rain or shine. For additional information visit broadripplefarmersmarket.org.
